Río Mocal, Upper & Gorges, Honduras (click here for the Honduras table of rivers)

river photo

Class: VI ; Flow: 150-350 cfs; Average Gradient: 24 m/km Upper, 13 m/km The Gorges; Portages: lots; Length: 17 + 36 km; Time: 2-4 days

Season: June to October; rafts? no; Highlights: crazy drops; Crux move: embracing the challenge

Put-In: San Sebastian bridge (1120 m) or Guanajulque (720 m); Take-Out: Los Reales (250 m) or lower

Description: (click here for general notes about my descriptions)

The Upper and Gorges section of the Río Mocal are full-on class VI creeking adventures for the foolhardy and brave. The creek descends Mount Celaque's remote south side through an endless series of convoluted bedrock gorges forcing many a portage. Once you put-on you are committed come hell or high water, both of which are distinct possibilities. For me, the first descents were formative experiences; however, I have not been very keen to return.

A full description is in the Mayan Whitewater El Salvador, Honduras, & Nicaragua guidebook.

Descent History: George Pratsinak and I survived the Upper in September 2004, with 200 to 450 cfs (story on page 101). I ran the Gorges in June 2005 (150 to 1,000 cfs).